Meet the teenage influencer from Lewes

Holly Hawkins Smith goes to Lewes Old Grammar School Sixth Form and lives in Isfield. She has now built up a following of more than 50,000 people on Instagram.

Holly started modelling when she was just nine and since then she’s built up a following to launch her recent eyelash brand - Lashes by Holly Camilla.

In March last year Holly started her researching process and in September she launched her business specialising in cruelty free, vegan eyelash extensions. Holly says everything she used is recyclable and sustainable.

Holly said the brand already has 15,000 followers on Instagram, it’s received good reviews from all over the world, and she’s sold out many times. The first photo shoot her lashes featured in was on a magazine cover.

Holly said her modelling has also allowed her to become quite the social media influencer, working with brands like Topshop and Revolution make up.

She said, “I was signed to Grace and Galor model agency when I was nine and since then I have gained over 65,000 combined followers on Instagram. I have also become an influencer which I love and I’ve made so many friends within the industry thanks to Instagram.”

Holly said she’s always wanted to start her own business and lockdown was the perfect time to make this a reality.

She said, “When the UK was locked down due to Covid 19 back in March 2020 I thought this was my perfect opportunity. I had time to really do something positive and useful and it also kept me busy through uncertain times.

“My main aim was to source recyclable, sustainable products and packaging with cruelty free and vegan luxury lashes at the forefront at an affordable price.”

Her first lash collected was released in September and went down very well with customers.

Holly said, “I have been so overwhelmed by its popularity. I have since gone on to launch two more collections and adhesive eyeliners. I have sold out of my collections many times and had incredible reviews from all around the world.

“My first brand campaign was shot by the super talented photographer Michalea Efford and the model head shots in my lashes appeared on the front cover of Gogi magazine.”

Holly said she wants her story to encourage other young people to ‘follow their dreams and be confident enough to start something they have always wanted to do’.

Anyone wanting to follow Holly’s business can find it on Instagram: @lashesbyhollycamilla